The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent closure of Badeggi Radio in Niger State by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, describing the action as a blatant attack on press freedom and a dangerous affront to Nigeria’s democratic principles.
In a press statement dated August 2, 2025, the Guild expressed grave concern over what it termed “an act of censorship and intimidation” that undermines the foundations of democratic governance.
According to the statement jointly signed by the Guild’s President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the governor acted beyond his constitutional authority in sealing off the station.
“The closure of Badeggi Radio, a vital platform for public discourse and information dissemination, is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy,” the Guild stated. “Governor Bago acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station. The power to sanction television and radio stations only lies with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach of the Code.”
The NGE cited Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory, as clear legal protections for freedom of expression and press freedom. It said such legal safeguards must not be overridden by unilateral political decisions.
The Guild expressed support for the position of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, who had earlier noted that the governor’s action was irregular. However, the Guild insisted that the federal government must do more than acknowledge the illegality and should immediately order the reopening of the station while investigations continue.
“Government officials should know that we are in a democracy and therefore, the act of arbitrary order for the sealing off and closure of a radio station is unacceptable,” the statement continued. “Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago.”
While acknowledging that allegations of incitement of violence are serious and must be investigated, the Guild maintained that due process must be followed. It also urged media practitioners to adhere strictly to the ethics of the profession and conduct themselves responsibly.
The NGE concluded its statement by calling for urgent steps to guarantee citizens’ rights to free expression and access to information. It demanded that Badeggi Radio be reopened immediately, stressing that a free and independent press remains indispensable to Nigeria’s democratic development.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
Follow us on:
